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How to Trace Pictures on Walls for Painting

Maybe your kids want a cartoon character on their wall, or you just want to paint a quote (and you're not so great at freehand). With the help of a projector, almost any design is as simple as trace and paint!

Things You'll Need

  • Projector
  • Transparencies
  • Printer
  • Computer
  • Colored pencil (thick art pencils work best)
  • Paint to match your design
  • Paintbrush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find the image you want on your walls. If you have it as a physical print, you'll need to scan it, but if you have a digital image, you're already set to go.

    • 2

      Copy the image to any program that lets you increase image size to full page (8 1/2 by 11 inches). If you're using Word, you can do this by right-clicking and changing the size.

    • 3

      Print the image as usual, except use transparency paper in your printer. Make sure you are using the type of transparency that matches your printer--ink-jet for an ink printer, laser-safe for a laser printer.

    • 4

      Place the image on the projector and point it so the image projects on the wall you want the image on.

    • 5

      Adjust the magnification so that the image fits the size you desire.

    • 6

      Trace the image onto the wall using a colored pencil. It's easiest to trace one side and then the other, since you will be blocking some of the light as you trace.

    • 7

      Paint to match the colors of the original, or get creative and paint the image in funky colors. Be careful to use the same standards you would with regular painting: cover anything that paint might drop on, use the correct size brushes and so forth.

    • 8

      Let dry, and enjoy your unique walls!